Overview

Does designing and creating with computer models interest you? Well, look no further than CWI’s Drafting Technology program to get on track to your new career. In this program, you will learn to design a variety of practical projects using the latest 3-D-modeling software and 3-D printers. Our outstanding instructors will provide you with an enjoyable environment to develop and hone your skills.

Mission

CWI’s Drafting Technology Program prepares students to design practical architectural and engineering-based projects with the latest 3D-modeling software.

Why This Program

The Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) is a two year degree designed to prepare drafters for the workplace. Embedded into the curriculum is an industry-certified exam which acts as a testament to the competent skill set students have achieved as they enter into the workforce.
The Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) takes approximately 16 months to complete. This curriculum provides students experience in beginning-to-intermediate level drafting software.
Technical Certificate (TC) is a one-year curriculum that introduces the basics of computer aided drafting.

What You Will Learn to Do

Translate ideas and designs into complete and accurate working plans

Prepare mechanical, architectural, civil, and structural drawing using both conventional and computer-assisted techniques

Understand general engineering and architectural procedures

Design and “draw” in the latest AutoCAD, SolidWorks and Revit software

Develop and understand the integration of communications, physics, and math-related skills in the workplace

Use reference catalogs and codes to appropriately specify means and methods into projects

Write a resume, search for a job, and interview effectively

Clubs

Skills USA is a nationwide organization; it is also a club at College of Western Idaho. Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for people from all backgrounds to enhance their technical and leadership skills. In Skills USA, college students can... more

Additional Opportunities

Along with the general drafting curriculum, students in the CWI Drafting Technology program have opportunities for integrated field trips, internships, tutoring programs, and extra-curricular activities. Recent field trips have included tours to LEED-certified buildings, construction sites, straw-bale homes, and local engineering firms that incorporate Building Information Modeling. An example of a drafting internship would be to assist in the installation of a solar thermal system in an area residence. The Drafting program avidly participates in extra-curricular activities such as Skills U.S.A., STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and a number of regional career fairs.

Gainful Employment

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who have completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at cwidaho.cc/ge

Advising

Navigating your way through college can be confusing, especially if you try to go it alone. CWI One Stop Student Services offers advising assistance, to help in deciding which courses you need to take to complete your educational goals. Visit Advising for more information or contact One Stop Student Services to schedule an appointment.

Connecting With Ideas

Connecting With Ideas (CWID 101) is the first semester student success course designed to help CWI students become engaged members of the academic community and cultivate habits for lifelong achievement and success. Each semester, students can select from a variety of themes. More information about next semesters CWID 101 themes

Transfer

Look beyond your degree at CWI and plan for continuing your education by working closely with CWI advising and representatives of your intended transfer school. Planning before you transfer can save you time and money. Visit Transfer Information for more information or contact One Stop Student Services.

Financial Aid Available

Did you know that as a student in this program you may be eligible for financial aid? Through grants, scholarships, and loans, more than 60 percent of first-time, full-time CWI students receive some form of financial assistance. To learn more about financial aid options and whether you may be eligible, visit Financial Aid.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition for a full-time CWI student averages half the cost of a state university and a third of the cost of a private college. Tuition and fees vary based on program and residence. Visit Tuition and Fees for more information.

Career Info

Drafting work is exciting and challenging. As a drafting graduate, you will be prepared for a wide variety of entry level technical positions, and equipped with the skills needed for advancement.

In the 2013-2014 school year I was lucky enough to be a part of the College of Western Idaho (CWI) Speech and Debate team. During the Fall 2014 semester I went in to see the new team and how they were doing. One of the new competitors, Zach, was talking about doing an informative speech on the...